Battery Triggering For Activation Of An Optical Data Interconnect System

ABSTRACT

A system for optical data interconnect of a source and a sink includes a first HDMI compatible electrical connector able to receive electrical signals from the source. A first signal converter is connected to the first HDMI compatible electrical connector and includes electronics for conversion of TMDS or FRL electrical signals to optical signals, with the electronics including an optical conversion device. At least one optical fiber is connected to the first signal converter. A second signal converter is connected to the at least one optical fiber and includes electronics for conversion of optical signals to differential electrical signals. A power module for the second signal converter includes a power tap connected to TMDS or FRL circuitry and a first voltage regulator connected to the power tap to provide power to an electrical signal amplifier. A rechargeable battery module is used to trigger power activation of connected ports, with the battery module being connected to the power tap. A second HDMI compatible electrical connector is connected to the second signal converter and able to send signals to the sink.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationSer. No. 62/817,286, filed Mar. 12, 2019, titled “Battery Triggering ForActivation Of An Optical Data Interconnect System” which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety, including but not limited to thoseportions that specifically appear hereinafter, the incorporation byreference being made with the following exception: In the event that anyportion of the above-referenced application is inconsistent with thisapplication, this application supersedes the above-referencedapplication.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to system for optical interconnect. Inparticular, a system and method for emulating electrical HDMIinterconnects with an optical system is described.

BACKGROUND

High Definition (HD) signals are typically transmitted from one systemto another using cables carrying DVI (Digital Video Interface) or HDMI(High Definition Multimedia Interface) signals. Conventionally, DVI/HDMIsignals are conveyed over copper cables using a form of differentialsignaling called Transition Minimized Differential Signaling (TMDS). InTMDS, video, audio, and control data can be carried on three TMDS datachannels with a separate TMDS channel for clock information. RecentlyHDMI 2.1 introduced another differential signaling form called FixedRate Link (FRL) to replace TMDS for delivering higher uncompressedresolutions such as 8K60 Hz. Unfortunately, over long distances of (e.g.5 meters or greater) the impedance of copper cable can cause a largesignal loss resulting in artifacts such as pixelation, optical flashingor sparkling, or even loss of picture. These artifacts can be reduced bypassive connection designs involved large or well shielded coppercables, but this is costly, bulky, and limits cable flexibility.Alternatively, active electronic modules such as signal boosters can beused to reduce signal loss, but these techniques are also costly and canresult in introduction of signal errors.

SUMMARY

In one embodiment, a system for optical data interconnect of a sourceand a sink includes a first HDMI compatible electrical connector able toreceive electrical signals from the source. A first signal converter isconnected to the first HDMI compatible electrical connector and includeselectronics for conversion of differential (including but not limited toHDMI standard TMDS or FRL) electrical signals to optical signals, withthe electronics including an optical conversion device connectable tosource ground to reduce noise. At least one optical fiber is connectedto the first signal converter. A second signal converter is connected tothe at least one optical fiber and includes electronics for conversionof optical signals to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electrical signals. Apower module for the second signal converter provides power to anelectrical signal amplifier connectable to sink ground. A second HDMIcompatible electrical connector is connected to the second signalconverter and able to send signals to the sink.

In a method embodiment, operating an optical data interconnect systemfor a source and a sink can include the steps of providing a first HDMIcompatible electrical connector able to receive electrical signals fromthe source. HDMI standard TMDS or FRL signals are converted to opticalsignals using a first signal converter connected to the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector, with the first signal converterincluding an optical conversion device connectable to source ground toreduce noise. Optical signals can be sent along at least one opticalfiber connected to the first signal converter. Optical signals arereceived and converted to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electrical signalsusing electronics in a second signal converter connected to the at leastone optical fiber. A power module for the second signal converterprovides power to an electrical signal amplifier. A second HDMIcompatible electrical connector is connected to the second signalconverter and able to send signals to the sink.

In another embodiment, a system for optical data interconnect of asource and a sink includes a first electrical connector able to receiveelectrical signals from the source. A first signal converter isconnected to the first electrical connector and includes electronics forconversion of electrical signals to optical signals, with theelectronics including an optical conversion device connectable to sourceground to reduce noise. At least one optical fiber is connected to thefirst signal converter. A second signal converter is connected to the atleast one optical fiber and includes electronics for conversion ofoptical signals to electrical signals. A power module for the secondsignal converter provides power to an electrical signal amplifier. Asecond electrical connector is connected to the second signal converterand able to send signals to the sink.

In one embodiment, a system for optical data interconnect of a sourceand a sink includes a first HDMI compatible electrical connector able toreceive electrical signals from the source. A first signal converter isconnected to the first HDMI compatible electrical connector and includeselectronics for conversion of HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electricalsignals to optical signals, with the electronics including an opticalconversion device. At least one optical fiber is connected to the firstsignal converter. A second signal converter is connected to the at leastone optical fiber and includes electronics for conversion of opticalsignals to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electrical signals. A power modulefor the second signal converter includes a power tap connected to HDMIstandard TMDS or FRL circuitry and a voltage regulator connected to thepower tap to provide power to an electrical signal amplifier. A secondHDMI compatible electrical connector is connected to the second signalconverter and able to send signals to the sink.

In a method embodiment, operating an optical data interconnect systemfor a source and a sink can include the steps of providing a first HDMIcompatible electrical connector able to receive electrical signals fromthe source. HDMI standard TMDS or FRL signals are converted to opticalsignals using a first signal converter connected to the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector, with the first signal converterincluding an optical conversion device. Optical signals can be sentalong at least one optical fiber connected to the first signalconverter. Optical signals are received and converted to HDMI standardTMDS or FRL electrical signals using electronics in a second signalconverter connected to the at least one optical fiber. The second signalconverter is powered using a power module to provide power to anelectrical signal amplifier. A second HDMI compatible electricalconnector is connected to the second signal converter and able to sendsignals to the sink.

In another embodiment, a system for optical data interconnect of asource and a sink includes a first electrical connector able to receiveelectrical signals from the source. A first signal converter isconnected to the first electrical connector and includes electronics forconversion of electrical signals to optical signals, with theelectronics including an optical conversion device. At least one opticalfiber is connected to the first signal converter. A second signalconverter is connected to the at least one optical fiber and includeselectronics for conversion of optical signals to electrical signals. Apower module for the second signal converter includes a power tap toprovide power to an electrical signal amplifier. A second electricalconnector is connected to the second signal converter and able to sendsignals to the sink.

In yet another embodiment, a system for optical data interconnect of asource and a sink includes a first HDMI compatible electrical connectorable to receive electrical signals from the source. A first signalconverter is connected to the first HDMI compatible electrical connectorand includes electronics for conversion of HDMI standard TMDS or FRLelectrical signals to optical signals, with the electronics including anoptical conversion device. At least one optical fiber is connected tothe first signal converter. A second signal converter is connected tothe at least one optical fiber and includes electronics for conversionof optical signals to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL electrical signals. Apower module for the second signal converter includes a power tapconnected to HDMI standard TMDS or FRL circuitry and a first voltageregulator is connected to the power tap to provide power to anelectrical signal amplifier. A rechargeable battery module is used totrigger power activation of connected ports, with the battery modulebeing connected to the power tap. A second HDMI compatible electricalconnector is connected to the second signal converter and able to sendsignals to the sink.

In a method embodiment, operating an optical data interconnect systemfor a source and a sink can include the steps of providing a first HDMIcompatible electrical connector able to receive electrical signals fromthe source. HDMI standard TMDS or FRL signals are converted to opticalsignals using a first signal converter connected to the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector, with the first signal converterincluding an optical conversion device. Optical signals can be sentalong at least one optical fiber connected to the first signalconverter. Optical signals are received and converted to HDMI standardTMDS or FRL electrical signals using electronics in a second signalconverter connected to the at least one optical fiber. The second signalconverter is powered using a power module to provide power to anelectrical signal amplifier. A rechargeable battery module able totrigger HDMI power activation of connected HDMI standard TMDS or FRLports is used, with the battery module being connected to the power tap.A second HDMI compatible electrical connector is connected to the secondsignal converter and able to send signals to the sink.

In another embodiment, a system for optical data interconnect of asource and a sink includes a first electrical connector able to receiveelectrical signals from the source. A first signal converter isconnected to the first electrical connector and includes electronics forconversion of electrical signals to optical signals, with theelectronics including an optical conversion device. At least one opticalfiber is connected to the first signal converter. A second signalconverter is connected to the at least one optical fiber and includeselectronics for conversion of optical signals to electrical signals. Apower module for the second signal converter includes a power tap toprovide power to an electrical signal amplifier. A rechargeable batterymodule able to trigger power activation of connected ports is used, withthe battery module being connected to the power tap. A second electricalconnector is connected to the second signal converter and able to sendsignals to the sink.

In an embodiment, the optical conversion device is a laser device driver(LDD).

In an embodiment, at least one optical fiber is multi-mode optical fiberand can include four or more optical fibers.

In an embodiment, the first HDMI compatible electrical connector is ableto transmit control or other signals from the source to the sink usingat least one of an electrical and an optical connection to the secondHDMI compatible electrical connector. Similarly, in some embodiments thesecond HDMI compatible electrical connector is able to transmit controlor other signals from the sink to the source using at least one of anelectrical and an optical connection to the first HDMI compatibleelectrical connector.

In an embodiment, the electrical signal amplifier of the second signalconverter further includes a transimpedance amplifier (TIA).

In an embodiment, the first signal converter connected to the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector further includes a photodetector, aVCSEL laser or LED diode and encoder/decoder to receive and transmitoptical signals.

In an embodiment, the second signal converter connected to the secondHDMI compatible electrical connector further includes a photodetector, aVCSEL laser or LED diode and encoder/decoder to receive and transmitoptical signals.

In an embodiment, a direct electrical data connection is made betweenthe first and second HDMI compatible electrical connectors.

In an embodiment, a direct electrical power connection is made betweenthe first and second HDMI compatible electrical connectors.

In an embodiment, the power module is connectable to a second powerport.

In an embodiment, the electrical signal amplifier is connectable to sinkground.

In an embodiment, the power tap includes an inductor.

In an embodiment, the power tap includes a ferrite bead.

In an embodiment, the rechargeable battery module further comprises asecond voltage regulator to supply 5 volts to a 5V port on the HDMIconnector of the sink device.

In an embodiment, the rechargeable battery module is disconnected fromthe second voltage regulator after power is received from the power tap.

In an embodiment, the rechargeable battery module is recharged by thepower tap.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present disclosureare described with reference to the following figures, wherein likereference numerals refer to like parts throughout the various figuresunless otherwise specified.

FIG. 1 illustrates an optical interconnect system;

FIG. 2 illustrates a method of operating an optical interconnect system;

FIG. 3 illustrates an optical interconnect system with external power;and

FIG. 4 illustrates a bi-directional optical interconnect system.

FIG. 5A illustrates one embodiment of an optical interconnect systemthat converts HDMI standard TMDS or FRL signals to optical signals andincludes a rechargeable battery;

FIG. 5B illustrates one embodiment of an optical interconnect systemthat converts HDMI standard TMDS or FRL signals to optical signals thatincludes a power tapping circuit without a battery;

FIG. 5C illustrates one embodiment of an optical interconnect systemthat converts control or other signals to optical signals;

FIG. 6A illustrates all optical connections for data and controlconnections for an HDMI compatible interconnect;

FIG. 6B illustrates optical data connections, electrical controlconnections, and an electrical power connection for an HDMI compatibleinterconnect;

FIG. 6C illustrates all optical data and control connections and anelectrical power connection for an HDMI compatible interconnect; and

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of an HDMI connector according to thedisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As seen in FIG. 1, an optical interconnect system 100 capable ofsupporting conversion of electrical signals to optical signals, and backto electrical signals is illustrated. A signal source 112 is connectedto an optical transmitter 114 that acts as a first signal converter toconvert electrical signals received from the signal source 112 intooptical signals. One or more optical fibers 115 are used to transferoptically encoded data to an optical receiver 116. The optical receiverdecodes and acts as a second signal converter to convert the data toelectrical signals that are provided to a sink device 120. The opticalreceiver 116 can include a separate power module 118, which in at leastone embodiment is connected via electrical power connection 119 to thesink device.

Various signaling protocols are supported by the optical interconnectsystem. In some embodiments, electrical signals can be provided in afirst protocol by source 112 and converted to a second protocol by theoptical receiver 116. In other embodiments, electrical signals can beprovided in a first protocol by source 112 and converted back to thesame protocol by the optical receiver 116.

In one particular embodiment, HDMI 1.4b/1.4, HDMI 2.0b/2.0, HDMI 2.1, orother suitable HDMI protocols can be supported. HDMI 1.4b/1.4 supports4K (3840×2160 pixels) video at 30 frames per second, while HDMI 2.0b/2.0supports 4K video at 60 frames per second, with a bit rate of up to 18Gbps. The latest HDMI 2.1 supports 8K video at 60 frames per second and4K video at 120 frames per second, with a bit rate of up to 48 Gbps.HDMI is based on HDMI standard TMDS or FRL serial links for transmittingvideo and audio data. Typically, the HDMI interface is provided fortransmitting digital television audiovisual signals from DVD players,game consoles, set-top boxes and other audiovisual source devices toother HDMI compatible devices, such as television sets, displays,projectors and other audiovisual devices. HDMI can also carry controland status information in both directions.

In other embodiments, other connectors and protocols can be supported,including but not limited to serial or parallel connectors, DigitalVideo Interface (DVI), other suitable connectors such as those based onLVDS, DisplayPort, USB-C or SATA In some embodiments, alternativeencoding systems can be used. For example, TMDS serial links can bereplaced with low density parity check (LDPC) code for video data.Alternatively, or in addition, a variable length and rate Reed-Solomon(RS) code can be used for audio and control information to provide errorprotection. Advantageously, such codes require no additional overheadfor DC-balancing or transition minimization, resulting in an increaseddata rate as compared to TMDS encoded signals.

In one embodiment, source 112 can include, for example, DVD players,game consoles, smartphones, set-top boxes, telephones, computers, audiosystems, or other network client devices. Source 112 can playback mediadata stored in a hard drive, a spinnable disk (e.g. Blu-ray or DVD), orheld in solid state storage. In other embodiments, the source 112 canreceive data through wired or wireless connection to cable providers,satellite systems, or phone networks. Similarly, sink device 120 canalso be televisions, monitors, displays, audio systems, projectors, orother network client devices.

In one embodiment, the optical transmitter 114 can convert HDMI standardTMDS or FRL electrical signals using an optical conversion deviceconnected to ground to reduce noise. Typically, this can be a laserdiode driver (LDD). The optical conversion driver device can include aninfrared or optical LED, semiconductor laser, or VCSEL device.

Advantageously, use of optical fiber 115 and elimination of electricalwired connection both provides electrical isolation and greatly improvedsignal. The optical fiber 115 is well suited for using consumer orhousehold environments, as well as in electrically active, wet, or moistenvironments such as are found in industrial, manufacturing, automobile,trucking, shipping, and avionics. In one embodiment, the optical fiber115 includes one or more multi-mode optical fibers protected by braidedfiber or plastic sheathing or other suitable covering. If completeelectrical isolation is not required, in another embodiment one or morelow voltage electrical wires are also supported to provide power orcontrol signals.

In one embodiment, the optical receiver 116 can convert optical signalsto HDMI standard TMDS or FRL or other suitable electrical signals. Theoptical receiver 116 can include a photo detector and an opticalreceiver that convert light impulses to an electrical signal. In someembodiments, a transimpedance amplifier (TIA) or other suitable signalamplification system can be used to increase signal power, and a PD(photodiode) or an APD (avalanche photodiode) can be used to convertoptical signals to electrical currents.

Power from power module 118 to operate the optical receiver 116 can beprovided by connection to the sink device 120, by connection to a secondpower port or another external power source (not shown), or by aninternal battery source. In some embodiments, a sink device can supportmultiple connector types (HDMI, DisplayPort, USB, USB-C, DC powerconnector) that can be used as external secondary power sources and/orinternal battery charging stations. In those embodiments that supportsource HDMI to sink HDMI connections, both power to operate opticalreceiver 116 and additional power to emulate an electrical HDMIconnection can be required since conventional HDMI connectable devicesrequire a DC connection between the source 112 and a grounded sinkdevice 120 to complete the circuit. This DC connection creates a currentreturn path from the sink device 120 to the source 112. Since thisconnection is typically provided through internal shields covering theindividual twisted wire pairs and a covering braid shield that are notavailable in a dedicated optical interconnect system, an additionalpower source is needed.

FIG. 2 illustrates a method 200 for interconnecting a source and a sink.Electrical signals from the source are converted to an optical signal(step 210) using a driver device for an infrared or optical LED,semiconductor laser, or VCSEL device. The optical signal is injectedinto a fiber optic cable and transferred (step 212). The transferredoptical system is converted to an electrical signal (step 216) that isreceived by a sink (step 218). In order to ensure conversion of theelectrical signal, plugging into the sink or connection to anotherexternal power source can supply power, wake signal conversionmicroprocessors or other electronics, and charge optional batteries(step 214).

FIG. 3 illustrates an optical interconnect system with external power.In this embodiment a signal source 312 is connected to an opticaltransmitter 314 that converts electrical signals received from thesignal source 312. One or more optical fibers 315 are used to transferoptically encoded data to an optical receiver 316. The optical receiverdecodes and converts the data to electrical signals that are provided toa sink device 320. The optical receiver 316 can include a separate powermodule 318, which in at least one embodiment is provided by electricalpower connection 319 to an external power module 322. In someembodiments the power module can be provided via other ports or powersupplies on the sink device (e.g. a USB port), while in otherembodiments power can be supplied by another device (e.g. a power overethernet connection from a network switch) or a suitable direct powersupply.

FIG. 4 illustrates a bi-directional optical interconnect system 400capable of supporting conversion of electrical signals to opticalsignals, and back to electrical signals. In a first direction of datatransfer, signal source 412 is connected to an optical transceiver 414that converts electrical signals received from the signal source 412.One or more optical fibers 415 are used to transfer optically encodeddata to an optical transceiver 416. The optical transceiver 416 decodesand converts the data to electrical signals that are provided to a sinkdevice 420. A return signal from the sink device 420 to source 412 isalso supported.

Both the optical transceiver 414 and 416 can include a respectiveseparate power module 419 and 418. In at least one embodiment anelectrical power connection can be made from power module 418 to thesink device 420. Similarly, an electrical power connection can be madeto the source device 412 from the power module 419.

In one embodiment optical fiber can used for data transmission from thesource device to the sink device. Additional optical fiber can be usedfor the transmission of a return signal from the sink device 420 to thesource device 412. Such bi-directional signal functionality allowsfuller support of the HDMI specification, including channels supportinglow data-rate remote control commands, audio return from sink device tosource, ethernet communication, and hot plug detection. Such datachannels can include, but not limited to, a Consumer Electronics Control(CEC), an Audio Return Channel (ARC) or Enhanced Audio Return Channel(eARC), a HDMI Ethernet Channel (HEC) and a Hot Plug Detect (HPD). CECallows a user to use a single remote to control multiple devices coupledtogether via HDMI cables. More specifically, a unique address isassigned to the connected group of devices, which is used for sendingremote control commands to the devices. ARC or eARC is an audio linkmeant to replace other cables between sink device and source that allowssource to reproduce the audio output from the sink device without usingother cables. HEC enables IP-based applications over HDMI and provides abidirectional Ethernet communication. HPD allows the source to sense thepresence of sink device and reinitiates link if necessary.

FIG. 5A illustrates one embodiment of HDMI optical fiber data connectionsystem 500 that includes electrical to optical, and subsequent opticalto electrical conversion. This embodiment can substantially replace aconventional electrical HDMI interface having two identical connectorsattached to opposite ends of a cable. Such cables typically include fourshielded twisted pairs of copper wires and seven separate copper wiresfor communicating various information. Four of the shielded twisted wirepairs are adapted to communicate relatively high-speed data and clock inthe form of Transition Minimized Differential Signaling (HDMI standardTMDS or FRL). In HDMI 2.0b and previous HDMI standards, three pairs areused for communicating video, audio, and auxiliary data, and aretypically referred to as D0-D2. The last pair is used for transmitting aclock associated with the data, and is typically referred to as CLK. InHDMI 2.1, all four pairs are used for communicating video, audio andauxiliary data, and are typically referred to as D0-D3. The speed of thehigh-speed data may range from 3 to 12 gigabits per second (Gbps) perlane. The remaining seven separate wires are used for communicatingrelatively low-speed data, such as in the range of 100 kilobits persecond (kbit/s) to 400 kbit/s. Two of such wires are referred to asDisplay Data Channel (DDC) for providing communication between devicesusing a communication channel that adheres to an I²C bus specification.One of the DDC wire pair, typically referred to as DDC DATA, is used tocommunicate data between the devices. The other DDC wire pair, typicallyreferred to as DDC CLK, is used to transmit a clock associated with thedata. The other five of the seven separate wires are CEC, utility, HPD,5V power and ground.

In operation, the respective HDMI standard TMDS or FRL, DDC, and otherelectrical signals from source 512 are provided to a transmitter 514housed in an HDMI compatible connector. Using a laser diode driver (LDD)and a semiconductor laser or LED diode powered by voltage regulatorREG1, an optical signal is generated and transferred to a photodetectorand HDMI standard TMDS or FRL receiver 516 housed in another HDMIcompatible connector. The HDMI standard TMDS or FRL receiver includes atransimpedance amplifier (TIA) connected to amplify the photodetectorsignal. The amplified electrical signals corresponding to the originallyprovided HDMI standard TMDS or FRL, DDC, and other electrical signalsare sent to a television, display, or other suitable sink 520.

In one embodiment, electrical power is supplied to the HDMI standardTMDS or FRL receiver through an electrical tap of the HDMI standard TMDSor FRL port by inductors L1 and L2 (or other suitable electricalfiltering circuit element such as ferrite beads) connected to a voltageregulator (REG2). The voltage regulator REG2 is connected to ground toreduce noise and acts to convert the voltage to the required operatingvoltage or voltages for a transimpedance amplifier that receives opticalsignals and converts them to electrical signals.

In some commercially available embodiments however, this mechanism willnot work unassisted, since application of a specific voltage power isrequired to enable or otherwise trigger provision of power to the HDMIconnection and connected electronics from sink 520.

For embodiments that require power triggering of the HDMI connection, arechargeable battery, supercapacitor, or similar charge bank can be usedto supply an initial 5-volt charge via regulator (REG3) to the 5V pin onthe HDMI port (RXSV) of the sink 520. After triggering activation of theHDMI port, the electrical tap by inductors L1 and L2 (or other suitableelectrical filtering circuit element such as ferrite beads) can be usedto charge the battery or other power source. In operation, when the HDMIconnector is not plugged into the sink 520, an enable pin “en” of REG3is kept as open circuit and pulled to ground by resistor R4. Therefore,REG3 is turned off and thus does not draw current from the battery. Whenthe HDMI connector is plugged into the sink 520 (e.g. a TV or display),the CEC pin or other appropriate pins, such as DDC, is connected to REG3“en”, which has certain voltage, e.g. 3.3V. REG3 is turned on andup-converts the battery voltage, e.g. 1.5V, to 5V. When the “5V” pin ofthe sink 520 is pulled to 5V, it starts to power the HDMI standard TMDSor FRL+ and HDMI standard TMDS or FRL− ports.

Inductors L1 and L2 block the AC signal provided by HDMI standard TMDSor FRL data connections and pass through the DC voltage (e.g. 2V) fromHDMI standard TMDS or FRL ports to REG2 “in”. REG2 up-converts ordown-converts this voltage to the necessary voltage or voltages for theTIA to operate. Once REG2 starts to output a voltage, it switches theMUX input so that REG3 “in” is connected to REG2 “in”. It also closesswitch Si and REG3 “out” starts to charge the battery.

Effectively, operation of the described circuit allows for therechargeable battery supplying power to the 5V pin on the HDMI port ofthe sink 520 (RXSV) to be controlled to prevent battery dissipation whenHDMI connector is unplugged. The rechargeable battery only operates whenthe cable is first plugged into the sink 520. After the sink 520 startsto power the HDMI standard TMDS or FRL ports, the rechargeable batterystops output current and instead is switched into a recharge mode.

Alternatively, FIG. 5B illustrates one embodiment of an opticalinterconnect system 501 similar to that discussed with respect to FIG.5A that converts HDMI standard TMDS or FRL signals to optical signalsthat includes a power tapping circuit without a battery. In operation,the respective HDMI standard TMDS or FRL, DDC, and other electricalsignals from source 513 are provided to a transmitter 515 housed in anHDMI compatible connector. Using a laser diode driver (LDD) and asemiconductor laser or LED diode powered by voltage regulator REG1, anoptical signal is generated and transferred to a photodetector and HDMIstandard TMDS or FRL receiver 517 housed in another HDMI compatibleconnector. The HDMI standard TMDS or FRL receiver includes atransimpedance amplifier (TIA) connected to amplify the photodetectorsignal. The amplified electrical signals corresponding to the originallyprovided HDMI standard TMDS or FRL, DDC, and other electrical signalsare sent to a television, display, or other suitable sink 521. Inaddition, the described circuit includes a slew rate controller tocontrol ramp up time of current draw of REG2 from the power taps on thehigh speed differential signal RX Data[3:0]. If this ramp up time is tooshort, the DC voltage on RX Data[3:0] can drop to such a low level thatREG2 stops working. This is prevented by the slew rate controllerregulating the ramp up time to be slow enough to ensure the proper powertapping on RX Data[3:0].

FIG. 5C illustrates one embodiment of an optical interconnect system 550that converts both HDMI standard TMDS or FRL and control or othernon-HDMI standard TMDS or FRL signals to optical signals. HDMI protocolrequires bi-directional communication channels between source 552 andsink 554 for successful video/audio transmission and reception, whichinclude but not limited to CEC, Utility, DDC (SCL), DDC (SDA), Ground,5V Power and HPD. In the embodiment of FIG. 5B, all communicationchannels between source 552 and sink 554 are aggregated onto two opticalfibers. An optical fiber 561 carries data from source 552 to sink 554,while an optical fiber 562 carries data from sink 554 to source 552,thus establishing bidirectional communication. Digital signal processingare realized by Digital Encoder/Decoder 1 (DED1 556) on the source sideand Digital Encoder/Decoder 2 (DED 558) on the sink side. DED1 556 and558 can either combine multiple communication channels into singleaggregated channel or separate single aggregated channel into multiplecommunication channels. As illustrated, P2 is a current source that ispowered by REG1 “out” and modulated by DED1 and drives a VCSEL or LEDdiode. REG1 in FIG. 5B operates in a manner similar to REG 1 as seen inFIG. 5A. P1, N1 and R5 form a transimpedance amplifier that is poweredby REG1 “out” and buffers a photodetector's output into DED1. Similarly,P4 is a current source that is powered by REG2 “out” and modulated byDED2 and drives a VCSEL or LED diode. REG2 in FIG. 5B operates in amanner similar to REG2 as seen in FIG. 5A that utilizes inductive powertapping from the HDMI standard TMDS or FRL ports. P3, N3 and R6 form atransimpedance amplifier that is powered by REG2 “out” and buffers aphotodetector's output into DED2. In this embodiment, multiple HDMIcommunication channels are replicated on both source and sink sidesusing only two optical fibers.

FIG. 6A illustrates one embodiment of a HDMI compatible fully opticalinterconnect system 600. As illustrated, multiple multi-mode opticalfiber cables 610 and 612 are used to transmit data from a transmitter602 to a receiver 604, and at least one multi-mode optical fiber 614that transmits signals back from the receiver 604 to the transmitter602. In the transmitter 602, electrical HDMI standard TMDS or FRL andnon-HDMI standard TMDS or FRL data are converted to optical pulses usingVCSEL laser or LED diodes. A photodetector and associated circuits areused to convert received optical pulses from optical fiber 614 toelectrical signals that can be processed by a connected source (notshown). The receiver 604 has multiple photodetectors and respectivelyconnected HDMI standard TMDS or FRL optoelectronic transmitters toconvert received optical pulses from optical fiber 610 and 612 toelectrical signals that can be processed by a connected sink (notshown). The receiver 604 also includes a VCSEL laser or LED diodeconnected to an encoder/decoder to convert electrical signals to opticalsignals that can be sent to the transmitter 602.

FIG. 6B illustrates one embodiment of a HDMI compatible hybridelectrical and optical interconnect system 620. As illustrated, multiplemulti-mode optical fiber cables 630 are used to transmit data from atransmitter 622 to a receiver 624. In the transmitter 622, electricalHDMI standard TMDS or FRL data is converted to optical pulses usingVCSEL laser or other laser diodes. A photodetector and associatedcircuits are used to convert received optical pulses from optical fiber634 to electrical signals that can be processed by a connected source(not shown). The receiver 624 has multiple photodetectors andrespectively connected HDMI standard TMDS or FRL optoelectronictransmitters to convert received optical pulses from optical fiber 630to electrical signals that can be processed by a connected sink (notshown). In addition to the optical connections, the system 620 alsosupports electrical wired connection 632 for various control and datasignals. As will be understood, these connections can be unidirectionalor bidirectional between transmitter 622 and receiver 624. In addition,the system includes an electrical power connection 634 connectingrespective power management units of transmitter 622 and receiver 624.Advantageously, because power is available, power triggering of the HDMIconnection and their associated electronics and battery systems such asdescribed with respect to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 are notnecessary.

FIG. 6C illustrates all optical data connections and an electrical powerconnection for an HDMI compatible interconnect system 640. Asillustrated, multiple multi-mode optical fiber cables 650 and 652 areused to respectively transmit data and control data from a transmitter642 to a receiver 644, and as well as at least one multi-mode opticalfiber 656 that transmits signals back from the receiver 644 to thetransmitter 642. In the transmitter 642, electrical HDMI standard TMDSor FRL data is converted to optical pulses using VCSEL laser or LEDdiodes. The receiver 644 has multiple photodetectors and respectivelyconnected HDMI standard TMDS or FRL optoelectronic transmitters toconvert received optical pulses from optical fiber 650 and 652 toelectrical signals that can be processed by a connected sink (notshown). The receiver 644 also includes a VCSEL laser or LED diodeconnected to an encoder/decoder to convert electrical signals to opticalsignals that can be sent to the transmitter 642 along multi-mode opticalfiber 656. In addition, the system includes an electrical powerconnection 654 connecting transmitter 642 and receiver 644.Advantageously, because power is available, power triggering of the HDMIconnection and their associated electronics and battery systems such asdescribed with respect to the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5 are notnecessary. However, in certain embodiments, a power tap on HDMI standardTMDS or FRL ports (e.g. using inductors and regulators) can still beused to power the HDMI standard TMDS or FRL receiver or other associatedcircuitry.

FIG. 7 illustrates one embodiment of a HDMI compatible interconnectsystem 700 including bundled and loosely looped optical cables 702, andsource 710 and sink 712 HDMI connectors. Signal converters 720 and 722include housing and board layout for HDMI standard TMDS or FRL receiver,as well as other electronics supporting electrical to optical conversionor optical to electrical conversion and are located adjacent torespective HDMI connector 710 and 712.

As will be understood, the system and methods described herein canoperate for interaction with devices such as servers, desktop computers,laptops, tablets, game consoles, or smart phones. Data and controlsignals can be received, generated, or transported between varieties ofexternal data sources, including wireless networks, personal areanetworks, cellular networks, the Internet, or cloud mediated datasources. In addition, sources of local data (e.g. a hard drive, solidstate drive, flash memory, or any other suitable memory, includingdynamic memory, such as SRAM or DRAM) that can allow for local datastorage of user-specified preferences or protocols.

Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention will come tothe mind of one skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachingspresented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings.Therefore, it is understood that the invention is not to be limited tothe specific embodiments disclosed, and that modifications andembodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appendedclaims. It is also understood that other embodiments of this inventionmay be practiced in the absence of an element/step not specificallydisclosed herein.

1. A battery triggered optical data interconnect system for a source anda sink, comprising: a first HDMI compatible electrical connector able toreceive electrical signals from the source; a first signal converterconnected to the first HDMI compatible electrical connector andincluding electronics for conversion of differential electrical signalsto optical signals, with the electronics including an optical conversiondevice; at least one optical fiber connected to the first signalconverter; a second signal converter connected to the at least oneoptical fiber and including electronics for conversion of opticalsignals to differential electrical signals; a power module for thesecond signal converter including a power tap connected to differentialcircuitry and a first voltage regulator connected to the power tap toprovide power to an electrical signal amplifier; a rechargeable batterymodule able to trigger HDMI power activation of connected differentialports, the battery module being connected to the power tap; and a secondHDMI compatible electrical connector connected to the second signalconverter and able to send signals to the sink.
 2. The optical datainterconnect system of claim 1 wherein the optical conversion device isa laser device driver (LDD).
 3. The optical data interconnect system ofclaim 1 wherein the at least one optical fiber is multi-mode opticalfiber.
 4. The optical data interconnect system of claim 1 wherein thefirst HDMI compatible electrical connector is able to transmit controlor other signals from the source to the sink using at least one of anelectrical and an optical connection to the second HDMI compatibleelectrical connector and the second HDMI compatible electrical connectoris able to transmit control or other signals from the sink to the sourceusing at least one of an electrical and an optical connection to thefirst HDMI compatible electrical connector.
 5. The optical datainterconnect system of claim 1 wherein the electrical signal amplifierof the second signal converter further comprises a transimpedanceamplifier (TIA).
 6. The optical data interconnect system of claim 1wherein the first signal converter connected to the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector further comprises a photodetector, aVCSEL laser or LED diode and encoder/decoder to receive and transmitoptical signals.
 7. The optical data interconnect system of claim 1wherein the second signal converter connected to the second HDMIcompatible electrical connector further comprises a photodetector, aVCSEL laser or LED diode and encoder/decoder to receive and transmitoptical signals.
 8. The optical data interconnect system of claim 1wherein the rechargeable battery module further comprises a secondvoltage regulator to supply 5 volts to the 5V pin on the HDMI port. 9.The optical data interconnect system of claim 1 wherein the rechargeablebattery module is disconnected from the second voltage regulator afterpower is received from the power tap.
 10. The optical data interconnectsystem of claim 1 wherein the rechargeable battery module is rechargedby the power tap.
 11. A method for operating an optical datainterconnect system for a source and a sink, comprising the steps of:providing a first HDMI compatible electrical connector able to receiveelectrical signals from the source; converting differential signals tooptical signals using a first signal converter connected to the firstHDMI compatible electrical connector, the first signal converterincluding an optical conversion device; sending optical signals along atleast one optical fiber connected to the first signal converter;receiving optical signals and converting them to differential electricalsignals using electronics in a second signal converter connected to theat least one optical fiber; powering the second signal converter using apower module having a power tap connected to differential circuitry andusing a first voltage regulator connected to the power tap to providepower to an electrical signal amplifier; using a rechargeable batterymodule able to trigger HDMI power activation of connected differentialports, the battery module being connected to the power tap; andproviding a second HDMI compatible electrical connector connected to thesecond signal converter and able to send signals to the sink.
 12. Theoptical data interconnect operating method of claim 11 wherein theoptical conversion device is a laser device driver (LDD).
 13. Theoptical data interconnect operating method of claim 11 wherein the atleast one optical fiber is multi-mode optical fiber.
 14. The opticaldata interconnect operating method of claim 11 wherein the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector is able to transmit control or othersignals from the source to the sink using at least one of an electricaland an optical connection to the second HDMI compatible electricalconnector and the second HDMI compatible electrical connector is able totransmit control or other signals from the sink to the source using atleast one of an electrical and an optical connection to the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector.
 15. The optical data interconnectoperating method of claim 11 wherein the electrical signal amplifier ofthe second signal converter further comprises a transimpedance amplifier(TIA).
 16. The optical data interconnect operating method of claim 11wherein the first signal converter connected to the first HDMIcompatible electrical connector further comprises a photodetector, aVCSEL laser or LED diode and encoder/decoder to receive and transmitoptical signals.
 17. The optical data interconnect operating method ofclaim 11 wherein the second signal converter connected to the secondHDMI compatible electrical connector further comprises a photodetector,a VCSEL laser or LED diode and encoder/decoder to receive and transmitoptical signals.
 18. The optical data interconnect operating method ofclaim 11 wherein the rechargeable battery module further comprises asecond voltage regulator to supply 5 volts to a 5V pin on a HDMI port.19. The optical data interconnect system of claim 11 wherein therechargeable battery module is disconnected from the second voltageregulator after power is received from the power tap.
 20. The opticaldata interconnect operating method of claim 11 wherein the rechargeablebattery module is recharged by the power tap.
 21. An optical datainterconnect system for a source and a sink, comprising: a firstelectrical connector able to receive electrical signals from the source;a first signal converter connected to the first electrical connector andincluding electronics for conversion of electrical signals to opticalsignals, with the electronics including an optical conversion device; atleast one optical fiber connected to the first signal converter; asecond signal converter connected to the at least one optical fiber andincluding electronics for conversion of optical signals to electricalsignals; a power module for the second signal converter including apower tap to provide power to an electrical signal amplifier; arechargeable battery module able to trigger power activation ofconnected ports, the battery module being connected to the power tap;and a second electrical connector connected to the second signalconverter and able to send signals to the sink.